Surprise Valley Electrification Corporation

Overview

Surprise Valley Electrification Corporation (SVEC) is a private, non-profit electric cooperative founded in 1937 and became fully operational in 1938. The organization primarily serves rural areas in Modoc and Lassen Counties in California, as well as portions of Lake County in Oregon and Washoe County in Nevada. SVEC’s mission is to provide safe and reliable electric service at the lowest possible rates to its member-owners.

History

SVEC was established to meet the electricity needs of communities in Surprise Valley, Canby, Adin, Lookout, and surrounding areas. When it began operations, the cooperative energized lines providing power to 809 customers using three diesel generators located at its original business premises. Over the decades, SVEC expanded its service area and transitioned to purchasing electricity from various renewable and non-renewable sources, including hydroelectric and nuclear power, thus enhancing the sustainability of its services.

Service Area and Operations

As of the latest reports, SVEC manages approximately 227 miles of transmission line, 1,759 miles of distribution line, and 172 miles of underground line. The cooperative supplies electricity primarily sourced from the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), with a significant portion being hydroelectric power—approximately 85%. SVEC also operates a geothermal plant located in Paisley, Oregon, further diversifying its energy portfolio.

Mission and Goals

SVEC is committed to providing excellent customer service, community value, and environmental leadership. Its strategic objectives include ensuring safety, reliability, and competitive rates while actively engaging with its members in the governance of the cooperative. The organization operates under principles such as voluntary and open membership and democratic member control, which allows member-owners to take an active role in setting policies and making decisions.

Financials

SVEC is classified as a 501(c)(12) nonprofit organization, focused on providing mutual benefits to its members. In recent fiscal years, its revenue primarily comes from program services, reflecting its commitment to serving its members without the expectation of tax-deductible contributions. The cooperative maintains a balance between operational expenses and revenue generation to ensure sustained service and infrastructure development.

Community Engagement and Safety Initiatives

The cooperative also emphasizes safety through ongoing infrastructure upgrades and wildfire mitigation plans. It has implemented proactive measures to address risks associated with fire-prone areas, including the replacement of traditional fuses with safer alternatives.

Conclusion

Surprise Valley Electrification Corporation continues to play a vital role in the energy landscape of rural Northern California and surrounding regions by prioritizing the needs of its member-owners while embracing sustainable practices and community engagement. Its long-standing commitment to providing affordable and reliable electricity makes it a significant asset to the communities it serves.